New Delhi, the capital of India is a bustling metropolis in India. Not only is it a famous tourist destination, it is also known for a variety of recreational options, including its amazing bazaars and a vibrant nightlife. For centuries, Delhi was known for its entertainment value. The streets and bazaars of Delhi had attained legendary fame around the world, and travelers from far off countries would travel long distances to experience the wealth and prosperity that Delhi stood for. Chandni Chowk is one of the names that would remain associated with Delhi for years to come. Located within the walls of Shahjahanabad, the city built by Mughul emperor Shahjahan, Chandni Chowk symbolized the good life that Delhi was synonymous with. Even today, when the last remaining traces of the old city struggle to exist, Chandni Chowk retains much of its charm, and is still held as one of the highlights of tourism in New Delhi.

The history of Chandni Chowk is as old as Shahjahanabad itself. It is said that the shopping arcade was planned by none other than Jahanara, the favorite daughter of Shahjahan in 1650. The shops were lined around a street that led to the Red Fort. A central pool was to be the center of attraction of the entire stretch. It is believed that the reflection of the full moon in this pool gave this street its name, as moonlight is called chandni in Hindi. Gradually more and more shops grew around the existing market and soon Chandni Chowk became a thriving business hub. All the necessities and luxuries needed by the residents of Delhi were to be found here. The sweet shops, particularly a shopkeeper named Ghantewala achieved international fame. The Ghantewalla�s shop still exists here. The variety of food available here today as in those days is one of the major attractions of Chandni Chowk in New Delhi.

Many important buildings of Shahjahanabad came up besides Chandni Chowk. The most important among these are the Jama Masjid, the Fatehpuri Masjid, Sunahri Masjid, Gurdwara Sheesh Gunj, and the Jain Temple. Life goes on as usual in these places much like it used to in the glorious days of Shahjahanabad. Seeing the hustle and bustle of the crowded Chandni Chowk today, it is quite difficult to imagine the plunders that these streets have seen again and again during the past two centuries. Chandni Chowk witnessed the worst plunders during the attacks by the Persian Nadir Shah, and later, after the fall of Delhi in 1857.

As in the past, Chandni Chowk continues to be a major trading hub of Delhi. Everything from garments, electronic goods, toys, to an amazing range of eatables can be found here. The entire area is divided into many sections called katras each specializing in a particular type of goods. Thus there are katras selling Jewelry, fabrics or food items. The sweets, including the jalebis and peras are the favorites of the locals here, while the tourist can also gorge on the fruit chaats, Biriyanis, and kebabs offered by countless eateries here. Among the clothes, chikan and zari, intricate traditional lace work and embroidery, are the specialties of Chandni Chowk.

The vibrancy and history of Chandni Chowk make it one of the most famous tourist spots in New Delhi. Tourists visiting New Delhi must visit Chandni Chowk before or after their tour of the Red Fort.

Touristplacesinindia.com offers online information about Chandni Chowk in New Delhi, and other tourist places in India.